Tag: Bluetooth 5.4

  • Xiaomi Debuts Global Earbuds With Snapdragon Sound & aptX Lossless

    Xiaomi Debuts Global Earbuds With Snapdragon Sound & aptX Lossless

    Key Takeaway

    – Buds 6 use 11 mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, and support multiple codecs (AAC, SBC, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless) with Snapdragon Sound; some models can switch to LC3.
    – They are compatible with Apple Find My and Android Find Hub, with claimed ANC up to 95 dB and wind resistance of 12 m/s.
    – Battery life: up to 3 hours with ANC on (aptX Adaptive at 50% volume) and up to 6 hours with ANC off (AAC); weight is 4.4 g per earbud.
    – Availability: listed in France and Italy and on Xiaomi’s global site; Eurozone price €149.99 with color options Graphite Black, Nebula Purple, Pearl White, Titan Grey; global launch event on May 28.

    A few months have passed since Xiaomi released the Buds 6 in China. Available there from the end of December, the Buds 6 replace the Buds 5 with a design reminiscent of Apple’s AirPods 4 (curr. $109 on Amazon). While Xiaomi is preparing to host a global launch event on May 28, it has already listed the Buds 6 on several of its websites outside China.

    Specs and Codecs

    To recap, the Buds 6 supports AAC, SBC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs via Snapdragon Sound with Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity. Also, the earbuds can switch to LC3, but only some models. Setting that aside, the Buds 6 is compatible with Apple Find My and Android Find Hub services.

    Sound and Build

    Moreover, the earbuds boast 11 mm drivers with a 16 Hz-40 kHz frequency response. On top of that, the Buds 6 should be capable of delivering up to 95 dB noise cancellation with 12 m/s wind resistance despite weighing 4.4 g per earbud. Xiaomi claims up to 3 hours of battery life with ANC enabled using the aptX Adaptive codec and 50% volume too, a claim that grows to 6 hours with ANC disabled and music playing using the AAC codec.

    Availability and Pricing

    Currently, Xiaomi has listed the Buds 6 on its French and Italian websites. Although not orderable yet, the websites confirm that the earbuds will reach the Eurozone for €149.99 in a choice between Graphite Black, Nebula Purple, Pearl White and Titan Grey colour options. The earbuds have also gone live on Xiaomi’s global website. Hence, it seems that the Buds 6 will be joining the Xiaomi 17T series in Vienna on May 28.

    Xiaomi Global, Xiaomi France & Xiaomi Italy


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Xiaomi Unveils Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with 72-Hour Battery Life

    Xiaomi Unveils Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with 72-Hour Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi released the Redmi Headphones Neo in Japan with 40 mm drivers, 42 dB Adaptive ANC, up to 72-hour battery, and a wired high‑res mode.
    – Bluetooth 5.4 with 20 Hz–20 kHz (Bluetooth mode); wired mode supports 20 Hz–40 kHz.
    – 263 g weight, triple microphone setup for improved call quality; price in Japan around ¥7,980 ($50).

    Overview of the Xiaomi Launch News

    Xiaomi is expected to unleash seveal devices globally on May 28 during its Vienna-based launch event. In the meantime, the company has already released a new pair of over-ear headphones. For the time being, Xiaomi is only offering the Redmi Headphones Neo in Japan.

    Product Details and Rumors

    However, we suspect that will change within the new days or so. Incidentally, the Redmi Headphones Neo were briefly available unofficially almost a month ago. As the image below shows, the headphones boast 40 mm dynamic drivers, up to 42 dB of Adaptive ANC and an optional high-resolution wired mode. Moreover, the headphones are said to last up to 72 hours between charges thanks to their 600 mAh battery.

    Technical Spec Highlights

    On top of that, the Redmi Headphones Neo supports Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity with 20 Hz-20 KHz frequency response delivered in Bluetooth mode. By contrast, the 263 g headphones provide a 20 Hz-40 kHz frequency response in wired mode. Also, Xiaomi has included a triple microphone setup to maximise audio quality during calls, too.

    Pricing and Availability

    For reference, Redmi Headphones Neo retail for JPY 7,980 (~$50), which makes them a fair bit cheaper than the Redmi Buds 8 Pro for which Xiaomi charges JPY 9,980 in Japan (~$62) (curr. $85 on Amazon). The over-ear headphones are already being sold for JPY 6,980 (~$44), though.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Sennheiser Momentum 5 Headphones: Better ANC, Mics, Replaceable Battery

    Sennheiser Momentum 5 Headphones: Better ANC, Mics, Replaceable Battery

    Key Takeaway

    – Replaceable battery extends longevity and reduces total cost of ownership.
    – Notable improvements to ANC and call quality due to 8 microphones, with up to 57-hour battery life (slightly less than prior gen).
    – Feature-rich spec: 42mm drivers, spatial audio with head tracking, AptX Lossless, Snapdragon Sound, Bluetooth 5.4 (upgradable to Bluetooth 6.0/LE Audio), USB-C wired/aux options.

    Overview

    Sennheiser has finally refreshed its Momentum line of over-the-ear headphones. The new Momentum 5 headphones arrive nearly four years after the Momentum 4, and despite the long period between both pairs, not a lot has changed. The write-up keeps you posted on what stayed and what moved, with careful attention to pricing and specs that matter to buyers today. Some readers may expect drastic shifts, but this release leans toward evolution rather than revolution, offering a more refined experience without rewriting the playbook.

    Design and Build

    The Momentum 5 headphones have kept the overall design, but with a few minor changes such as the logo on the fabric-top headband and the metal plates on each earcup, which we believe are covering the microphones. However, a major change that they bring is that they have a replaceable battery, which means a possibility for the headphones to last for a very long time. In this section, the emphasis is on how the aesthetics and durability align with modern tastes while ensuring serviceability remains practical for long-term ownership, even if that means some users will want to swap parts themselves.

    Technical Specifications

    In terms of features, the Momentum 5 headphones have 42mm drivers, like their predecessors. They also have active noise cancellation (ANC), which Sennheiser says is three times stronger in mid-range frequencies than that of the previous generation. The improvement in ANC (and calls) is attributed to the 8 mics on the Momentum 5, double that of the Momentum 4. As expected, there’s also a transparency mode for when you want to let external sound in. The specification sheet remains friendly for enthusiasts who care about driver size, mic count, and the claimed improvements in listening clarity under real world conditions.

    Battery and Charging

    Sennheiser says the Momentum 5 headphones have a battery life of up to 57 hours, a few hours less than the 60 hours of the previous generation. Of course, real life usage will vary depending on personal settings, but it should still be amazing, nonetheless. There are five LEDs that indicate the remaining battery life and the headphones charge via USB-C. The USB-C port can also be used for wired playback or you can use the 3.5mm aux jack next to it. This section emphasizes practical endurance and flexible charging options that matter to daily users who travel or commute.

    Features

    The Momentum 5 also have spatial audio (Dolby Atmos with head tracking), support for AptX Lossless Bluetooth codec, Snapdragon Sound, and Bluetooth 5.4 (will be updated to Bluetooth 6.0 and LE audio via a firmware update). There are physical controls as well as touch controls on the right earcup. The headphones come in a flat but large hard shell case since the headphones lay flat. The case has a pocket and slots for the USB-C and 3.5mm aux cables. This blend of spatial audio, codecs, and durable case makes them versatile for tech enthusiasts who value both soundstage and portability.

    Pricing and Availability

    Sennheiser is charging $399.99/€399.90/£329.90 for the Momentum 5, and they will be available to buy in Black, White, and Denim when they are released on June 30. They are cheaper than the $450 price tag the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones had at launch, but at the moment, you can buy Sony’s headphones for $398 on Amazon. This comparison helps potential buyers weigh value against contemporaries while noting the Momentum 5’s replaceable battery as a differentiator.

    Sennhesier: 1, 2

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • JBL SoundGear Clips Get Special Edition Color in China

    JBL SoundGear Clips Get Special Edition Color in China

    Key Takeaway

    – JBL released Emerald Green Special Edition for Soundgear Clips in China, joining existing Ghost colors with a see-through design and matching case.
    – Priced at ¥999 (~$147/€127) on JD.com; unclear if broader regional release will occur.
    – Features include SonicArc + OpenSound Technology with Air Conduction, 11mm driver, IP54, Bluetooth 5.4, Multipoint, 8-hour playback (32 hours with case).
    – Supports JBL Headphones app (Android/iOS).

    Emerald Green Special Edition JBL Soundgear Clips emerge in China

    The news starts with a fresh hue and a hint of exclusivity, as JBL rolled out a new Emerald Green Special Edition for the Soundgear Clips. The first launch in August promised open-ear comfort and a see-through design, and this addition in October keeps that promise while adding a new shade to the palette. It’s positioned as a limited sort of release, making the color stand out in a crowded market.

    Color lineup and design details

    Emerald Green joins the existing colors that have already captivated fans—Blue Ghost, Black Ghost, White Ghost, Purple Ghost, and Copper Ghost. The special edition sticks to the hallmark see-through aesthetic and comes with a carrying case that matches its tone, ensuring a cohesive look straight from the box. The styling choice continues to emphasize visibility and a modern, futuristic vibe, with a design that feels both premium and playful in equal measure.

    Where to buy and regional availability

    Currently, the Emerald Green Special Edition is listed for sale on JD.com at ¥999, which Roughly translates to about $147 or €127. There is no information yet about a wider release beyond China, leaving the Emerald Green as a potentially exclusive color option local to that market for now. The rest of the color lineup remains available through various retailers, but this particular edition is tied to a regional retailer at the moment.

    Specs and performance summary

    The JBL Soundgear Clips, in general, feature a SonicArc design married with JBL’s OpenSound Technology that uses Air Conduction to curb sound leakage. Each earpiece houses an 11mm dynamic driver and is equipped with two beamforming microphones to help with call quality and ambient awareness. The build includes IP54 dust and water resistance, a Bluetooth 5.4 connection, and Multipoint pairing for switching between devices seamlessly.

    Battery life and app support

    On a single charge, these earbuds advertise about 8 hours of playback, and up to 32 hours total with the charging case. They are compatible with the JBL Headphones app, which is available for both Android and iOS platforms, offering users flexibility in customizing their listening experience and monitoring device status.

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • Samsung Galaxy S26: Restriction on Precise Location Tracking Explained

    Samsung Galaxy S26: Restriction on Precise Location Tracking Explained

    Key Takeaway

    1. NFC is mainly used for mobile payments, while UWB and Bluetooth are key for smart home integration and object tracking.
    2. The Galaxy S26 lacks UWB, which is present in the S26+ and S26 Ultra, affecting features like precise locating and digital car or door keys.
    3. The Galaxy S26 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, potentially limiting its smart object locating capabilities compared to upcoming devices with newer standards.
    4. The device features a high-quality build, a bright and accurate OLED display, and solid performance, but has moderate battery life and slower charging compared to competitors.
    5. The Galaxy S26 is a refined flagship with incremental upgrades, emphasizing display quality and overall user experience over radical innovations.

    Short-range wireless technologies including NFC, UWB, and Bluetooth

    These technologies are mainly used for quick and easy data transfer as well as for locating devices in close proximity. NFC is most commonly used for mobile payments, while UWB and Bluetooth also have respective roles in smart home systems and in tracking things like objects or tags. UWB is integrated into models like the S26+ and S26 Ultra, but unfortunately the Galaxy S26 lacks this feature, which limits its ability to precisely locate items or serve as access points to smart locks or car keys. Its functions extend beyond just tracking, assisting in contactless unlocking and vehicle access systems.

    Role of Bluetooth in Smart Ecosystems

    Bluetooth, especially starting from the 6.0 version, is becoming more competitive with UWB for locating smart objects if it gets enough updates. Despite that, Samsung set it back a little by opting for the older Bluetooth 5.4 in the Galaxy S26, instead of the latest iteration. Fans hope that future models like the Galaxy S27 will feature more advance Bluetooth versions, thus closing the gap with UWB on smart device findability and connectivity. Bluetooth also supports many features in smart homes, like controlling lights, locks, and appliances, providing an essential connectivity backbone across many connected gadgets.

    Overview of the Galaxy S26

    The Galaxy S26 presents itself as a compact luxury smartphone that stands out because of its performance, display, and battery. Powered by the Exynos 2600 chipset, it has a 6.3-inch OLED screen which is bright, evenly lit, and calibrated for accurate colors. The device is built with high-quality materials and feels very premium in hand, making it a top-tier choice for those looking for a sleek, reliable device. The display’s brightness and color precision make it suited for everyday use, whether indoors or outside in sunlight.

    Pros and Cons of the Galaxy S26

    • Fast, dependable operation with good network reception
    • Long-term support with updates expected for seven years
    • Battery capacity of 4,300 mAh, delivering decent daily usage

    However, it has its limitations. Charging speeds are only 25 watts, which is somewhat slow considering current standards, leading to longer recharge times. The phone’s battery life is only moderately improved over previous models, and it underperforms under sustained high performance, with noticeable throttling of its processor. The camera system remains similar to previous generations without notable upgrades in hardware or features. Overall, the Galaxy S26 isn’t a complete overhaul but rather a smarter, slightly refined version of a flagship, excelling mostly in its display, usability, and overall build quality.

    Sources
      Tags: , , , ,
    • Affordable Nothing Headphone with ANC and 135 Hours Playback

      Affordable Nothing Headphone with ANC and 135 Hours Playback

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Nothing Headphone (a) is a budget-friendly version of the original Nothing Headphone (1), featuring the same 40 mm dynamic drivers but without KEF tuning.
      2. It includes Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that can reduce noise by up to 40 dB and offers impressive battery life: up to 135 hours without ANC and 75 hours with ANC.
      3. Charging is quick, with just five minutes of charging providing eight hours of playback, and a full charge via USB-C taking about two hours.
      4. Connectivity features include Bluetooth 5.4, the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously, and buttons for call management and virtual assistant access.
      5. The Headphone (a) comes in four colors (black, white, pink, yellow) and is priced at EUR 159, with global availability starting now, but black and yellow versions released on April 6.

      Alongside the Phone 4(a) and Phone 4(a) Pro, Nothing has introduced a budget-friendly version of its Nothing Headphone (1). Named the Nothing Headphone (a), this model seeks to provide a similar experience but at a lower price point. To begin with, it features the same 40 mm dynamic drivers, offering a frequency response ranging from 20 Hz to 40 kHz. The main distinction appears to be the absence of tuning by KEF.

      Active Noise Cancellation

      The Nothing Headphone (a) includes ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) with two special microphones that can reduce noise by up to 40 dB. It is equipped with a 1,060 mAh battery that allows for as much as 135 hours of AAC playback without ANC and around 75 hours when ANC is activated. When using the LDAC codec, those times drop to 72 hours and 50 hours, respectively. Nothing states that just five minutes of charging can provide power for the Headphone (a) for as long as eight hours. A full charge through USB-C takes roughly two hours.

      Connectivity and Design Features

      Additional features encompass Bluetooth 5.4, the capability to connect to two devices at the same time, a specific power on/off switch, a pairing button, a paddle for answering or rejecting calls, and a distinct button to summon virtual assistants like ChatGPT. In terms of design, the Headphone (a) retains the same look as its predecessor, featuring a boxy housing for the headphones themselves.

      Nothing presents the Headphone (a) in four colors: black, white, pink, and yellow. It is priced at EUR 159 in Europe and is available globally starting now through Nothing’s official website and various retailers. Nonetheless, the black and yellow versions won’t be available until April 6.

       

      Tags: , ,
    • Xiaomi Tag: New AirTag Alternative Now Available in More Countries

      Xiaomi Tag: New AirTag Alternative Now Available in More Countries

      Key Takeaways

      1. Launch and Availability: The Xiaomi Tag has launched in Europe and is available in regions like Malaysia and Thailand.

      2. Competition: It competes with Apple AirTag and is compatible with both Apple FindMy and Google Android Find Hub.

      3. Tracking Features: The device includes a built-in buzzer, Bluetooth 5.4 support, Lost Mode, and privacy protection notifications.

      4. Design and Durability: It features a white plastic exterior with a silver metal ring, IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, and is scratch-resistant.

      5. Pricing: The Xiaomi Tag is priced at €14.99 in Europe, with a pack of four available for €49.99, offering a savings of nearly €10.

      Xiaomi has just launched its Tag in Europe. This much-anticipated accessory had been creating buzz for a while and was seen on the company’s global website earlier in 2026. Additionally, it’s already up for grabs in some regions, including Malaysia and Thailand.

      Competing with the Best

      The Xiaomi Tag goes head-to-head with products like the Apple AirTag. Its main purpose is to assist users in tracking their belongings and locating them if they go missing. This device is compatible with both the Apple FindMy and Google Android Find Hub protocols, catering to users of both iOS and Android devices. The built-in buzzer and Bluetooth 5.4 support allows the tag to emit a sound when you’re trying to find your item within a close range. For farther distances, a wider network can help determine the object’s location, which can be improved if you share the Xiaomi Tag with friends. There’s also a Lost Mode feature that lets you share your contact info with other Android or iOS users who may find your item. Additionally, users receive privacy protection notifications to help prevent any unwanted tracking.

      Specifications and Design

      This tracker boasts a white plastic exterior complemented by a silver metal outer ring, with dimensions of 46.5 x 31.0 x 7.2 mm (~1.83 x 1.22 x 0.28 inches) and weighing in at 10 g (~0.35 oz). It has an IP67 rating, ensuring its dust and water resistance, and its casing is reportedly scratch-resistant. Its sleek design makes it convenient to fit into a wallet or attach to keys and luggage.

      Pricing Information

      In several European countries, like Germany, the Xiaomi Tag is on sale for €14.99. Moreover, you can save nearly €10 if you opt for a pack of four, priced at €49.99.

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,
    • Xiaomi Launches New Competitor to Apple AirTag Globally

      Xiaomi Launches New Competitor to Apple AirTag Globally

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Xiaomi Tag will be officially launched globally on February 28th, 2026.
      2. It is compatible with Apple Find My and Google Android Find Hub systems, using Bluetooth 5.4 and NFC.
      3. Features include alerts for leaving items behind and a Lost Mode for marking items as lost with owner contact information.
      4. The device has a piezo electric buzzer, operates on a replaceable CR2032 battery lasting over a year, and has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.
      5. Pricing in the EU is €17.99 for a single tag and €59.99 for a pack of four.

      The Xiaomi Tag has shown up on the company’s global website. Speculations about this accessory started back in 2025, and it was later spotted on the Xiaomi France website. Recently, the company announced that it will officially launch globally during an event on February 28th, 2026.

      Product Features

      The listing for the Xiaomi Tag reveals that the device is compatible with both Apple Find My and Google Android Find Hub systems. It utilizes Bluetooth 5.4 and NFC, but it’s worth noting that ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is missing. Some of the features include alerts when you leave an item behind, notifying users when they seem to be away from their belongings. Additionally, there’s a Lost Mode that allows you to mark an item as lost and include your contact information. If a Google Find Hub user stumbles upon your lost item, they will see a pop-up showing the owner’s details. Users of Apple Find My can tap the NFC to access the saved contact info.

      Design and Battery Life

      The Xiaomi Tag has a built-in piezo electric buzzer that emits a sound to assist in locating an item when it’s lost nearby. It operates on a replaceable CR2032 battery, which is expected to last for more than a year. The device features a white, pendant-like appearance, allowing it to be easily attached to an object using a strap or keyring. Its dimensions are 46.5 x 31.0 x 7.2 mm (approximately 1.83 x 1.22 x 0.28 inches), it weighs 10 g (around 0.35 oz), and it comes with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.

      Pricing Information

      As a note, in European Union countries, such as France, the price for a single Xiaomi Tag is set at €17.99, while a pack of four will cost €59.99.

      Xiaomi’

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,
    • Affordable Redmi Wireless Earbuds with 37-Hour Battery Life Leak

      Affordable Redmi Wireless Earbuds with 37-Hour Battery Life Leak

      Key Takeaways

      1. Xiaomi is set to launch the Redmi Buds 8 Active, a more affordable version of the Lite model priced at €19.99.
      2. The earbuds will feature an open-fit design similar to Apple AirPods 4 and will include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
      3. Battery life is expected to be impressive, with up to 7 hours of listening time and a total of 37 hours with the charging case when ANC is off.
      4. Key specifications include a 14.2mm dynamic driver, dual-microphone AI call noise reduction, Bluetooth 5.4, and fast charging support.
      5. Additional features will include Google Fast Pair and multipoint connectivity, although there is no information on high-resolution Bluetooth codec support.

      Xiaomi appears to be gearing up to unveil a new version of the Redmi Buds 8. This upcoming set of wireless earbuds, named the Active model, is expected to be less expensive than the Lite version (€22.99 on Amazon.de) and is likely to sport a semi-in-ear design.

      Design and Features

      According to a recent leak from YTechB, the Redmi Buds 8 Active will feature an open-fit design, akin to the Apple AirPods 4. Similar to Apple’s more affordable wireless earbuds, these will also come equipped with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation). However, it’s still uncertain how effective the noise cancellation will actually be, but the leaked specifications indicate that battery life will be a significant selling point.

      Battery Life

      When the ANC is turned off, the earbuds are expected to provide up to 7 hours of listening time. With the charging case, the total usage time should reach around 37 hours. The leaked information also implies that charging the earbuds won’t take a long time. Much like the Redmi Buds 8 Lite, the Active version is anticipated to include Bluetooth 5.4, but there is no information about support for any high-resolution Bluetooth codecs.

      Additional Specs

      YTechB mentions that the Buds 8 Active will be outfitted with a 14.2mm dynamic driver and dual-microphone AI call noise reduction technology. There will also be features like Google Fast Pair, multipoint connectivity, and support for fast charging. It is reported that the wireless earbuds will be priced at €19.99 in the EU, though there is no clear indication of the launch date.

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,
    • Xiaomi Launches Affordable Smart Glasses with 12-Day Battery Life

      Xiaomi Launches Affordable Smart Glasses with 12-Day Battery Life

      Key Takeaways

      1. Xiaomi has launched the Smart Audio Glasses as part of its Mijia series, focusing on audio features rather than built-in displays.
      2. The new glasses are thinner and provide a standby time of 12 days, with 13 hours of usage on a single charge.
      3. They have an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, support Bluetooth 5.4, and are compatible with Android 10.0 or iOS 14 and later.
      4. The glasses feature four microphones, cameras for short videos, and touch gesture controls for voice assistants.
      5. The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses are priced at €179.99 in the Eurozone and £169.99 in the UK, available for purchase now.

      Xiaomi has unveiled the Smart Audio Glasses as part of its Mijia series. Unlike traditional smart glasses such as the Xreal R1, which have built-in displays, these glasses are more similar to Ray-Ban Meta glasses (currently priced at $459.99 on Amazon) with integrated speakers and cameras.

      Thinner Design with Improved Performance

      In essence, Xiaomi is positioning its Mijia Smart Audio Glasses against its previous models. These new glasses are slimmer than the existing Xiaomi Smart Audio Glasses and offer an impressive standby time of 12 days, with 13 hours of usage on a single charge.

      Features and Compatibility

      Additionally, the smart glasses come with an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, support Bluetooth 5.4, and are compatible with devices running Android 10.0 or iOS 14 and later. Furthermore, Xiaomi has equipped the glasses with four microphones, cameras for taking short videos, and a touch gesture feature to activate voice assistants.

      The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses are now available for purchase throughout the Eurozone and the UK. At this moment, you can order these new smart glasses for €179.99 and £169.99, respectively. For more information, visit Xiaomi’s official website.

      Xiaomi Germany and Xiaomi UK

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,